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Arctic Council delegates gather for first ever senior officials’ meeting in Yukon

WHITEHORSE—Premier Darrell Pasloski said today he is pleased the Government of Canada chose Yukon as the location for its first Senior Arctic Officials’ meeting.

“We anticipate a very good meeting this week at this first senior officials’ gathering in Whitehorse,” Pasloski said. “Having circumpolar officials and observers meet here is a natural fit as Arctic Council delegates make decisions that affect the North.”

The Arctic Council was established in 1996 to promote cooperation, coordination and interaction on common issues. The council focuses particularly on sustainable development and environmental protection in the Arctic. Council member states are Canada, Denmark (including Greenland and the Faroe Islands), Finland, Iceland, Norway, Russian Federation, Sweden and the United States. The Government of Canada was the first council chair in 1996 and resumed this position for a second time in May.

“The theme of Canada’s Arctic Council chairmanship is Development for the People of the North,” Pasloski added. “Issues also being discussed are responsible Arctic resource development, safe shipping and sustainable circumpolar communities. Northern premiers support this focus and are committed to working together to ensure our issues are addressed at this important forum.”

Canada has committed to hosting as many meetings as possible throughout the North and to hold various outreach events to increase awareness and engagement of northerners including youth.

The Senior Arctic Officials’ meeting runs from October 21 to 23. The Government of Yukon will also help Canada showcase the North through various events and presentations.